GCU Alumnus Pens Harrowing Memoir of Survival and Hope
A former refugee and Grand Canyon University alumnus, Bikonzi Moise, has penned a memoir titled 'Cockroaches, God, Death, and Mangoes'. Co-authored with Clint Leavitt, another GCU alumnus, the book shares Moise's harrowing journey during the Second Congo War and his eventual migration to the US. Moise and Leavitt recently returned to GCU to inspire students with their story and encourage support for refugees.
Moise's family endured unimaginable hardships during the Second Congo War, one of the deadliest conflicts since World War II. They were among those imprisoned in concentration camps for over a year. Moise's story left his friends astonished when he first shared it during a road trip in their freshman year at GCU. The memoir, which took six years to complete, delves into key themes reflected in its title: survival, faith, loss, and the beauty of resilience.
The book is a result of Moise's collaboration with several GCU alumni, including co-author Clint Leavitt. It is now available for purchase on Amazon. Moise and Leavitt's recent visit to GCU served as a reminder of the university's commitment to global engagement and social responsibility.
Bikonzi Moise's memoir, 'Cockroaches, God, Death, and Mangoes', offers a poignant account of survival and hope amidst conflict and despair. His story, now a book, serves as a testament to the human spirit and a call to action for readers to support refugees. Moise and Leavitt's return to GCU underscores the university's dedication to fostering global awareness and inspiring students to make a difference.